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Locomotive Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Army

$28.81/hr

Ability to do the work of a(n) Locomotive Engineer (Railroad Repr Inspector) ~ without more than normal supervision. Operating at least one type of locomotive to pull railcars and cargo. Performing ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$28.81/hr

Ability to do the work of a(n) Locomotive Engineer (Railroad Repr Inspector) ~ without more than normal supervision. Operating at least one type of locomotive to pull railcars and cargo. Performing ...

Herzog

Locomotive Engineers

New Haven, CT · On-site

$51.01/hr

Must maintain a valid Engineer Certification under 49 CFR Part 240. * Three years of safe, increasingly responsible railroad experience as a certified locomotive engineer; passenger rail operations ...

Herzog

Locomotive Engineers

New Haven, CT · On-site

$51.01/hr

Must maintain a valid Engineer Certification under 49 CFR Part 240. * Three years of safe, increasingly responsible railroad experience as a certified locomotive engineer; passenger rail operations ...

Aurizon

Locomotive Driver

Albany, NY · On-site

Locomotive Driver Back to search results Apply now Job Number: 87465-601338 Work type: Permanent - Full Time Location: Albany Categories: Train Driver Aurizon is seeking applications from Qualified ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

... engineer duties including the operation of single and multiple unit locomotives, completing preshift equipment inspections, performing minor maintenance and operations support activities, and ...

Freeport McMoRan

Locomotive Operator II

Claypool, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

... engineer duties including the operation of single and multiple unit locomotives, completing preshift equipment inspections, performing minor maintenance and operations support activities, and ...

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How much do locomotive engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for locomotive engineer in the United States is $26.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a locomotive engineer?

Locomotive engineers are skilled professionals responsible for operating trains that transport passengers or freight. They control the speed, handling, and braking of locomotives, ensuring safe and timely travel along rail routes. Locomotive engineers must be attentive to signals, track conditions, and communication from dispatchers to prevent accidents. They also inspect their trains before departures and keep detailed records of their journeys. This role requires specialized training and certification to ensure both safety and efficiency.

What does a locomotive engineer do?

Locomotive engineers, also known as train conductors, operate trains on railroads. In this role, you oversee operations for trains that transport freight or passengers. Some locomotive engineers work in a station or rail yard where they supervise the coupling of train cars. Before each trip, a train conductor inspects the train and plans the timing of their journey. Your responsibilities include communicating with control centers along the route to ensure the safety of the train and to monitor updates about track conditions. Locomotive engineers also document any problems that arise concerning the state of the train or tracks.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a locomotive engineer?

To thrive as a Locomotive Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of train operations, mechanical systems, and safety regulations, typically requiring a high school diploma and completion of a railroad training program with federal certification. Familiarity with locomotive control systems, diagnostic tools, and railroad signaling technology is essential for daily operations. Attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient train movement and help prevent accidents or operational delays.

What are some typical challenges faced by locomotive engineers during their shifts?

Locomotive Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to varying weather conditions, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and managing unexpected delays or mechanical issues. They must remain highly alert during long shifts, especially when operating at night or through complex track systems. Effective communication with conductors, dispatchers, and maintenance crews is essential to ensure smooth and safe train operations.

What is the difference between Locomotive Engineer vs Train Conductor?

AspectLocomotive EngineerTrain Conductor
CredentialsCommercial driver's license, technical training, certificationsCustomer service skills, safety training, certifications
Work EnvironmentOperate and control trains, focus on machineryCoordinate passenger or freight services, oversee safety
Employer & IndustryRailroads, freight and passenger servicesRailroads, passenger transit companies

Locomotive Engineers primarily operate trains and focus on controlling the locomotive, requiring technical training and certifications. Train Conductors oversee train operations, passenger safety, and customer service. Both roles are essential in rail transportation but differ in responsibilities and daily tasks.

Are locomotive engineers in demand?

Locomotive engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for freight and passenger transportation. Employment opportunities depend on the transportation industry’s growth, infrastructure investments, and the requirement for certifications and safety training. Job prospects are generally stable, especially in regions with active rail networks.

Do locomotive engineers make good money?

Locomotive engineers typically earn a competitive salary, with median wages around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often work irregular hours and require certification and safety training, which can influence earning potential.

How do you get to be a locomotive engineer?

To become a locomotive engineer, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by completing a training program provided by a railroad company or a technical school. They must pass written and skills tests, obtain certification from the Federal Railroad Administration, and often gain experience through on-the-job training or apprenticeships.
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Locomotive Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Locomotive Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,402 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Locomotive Engineer - Lexington, KY / Louisville, KY

R J Corman Railroad Group

Lexington, KY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

R. J. Corman Railroad Company is seeking dynamic Locomotive Engineers in Lexington, KY and Louisville, KY. If you are ambitious and dependable, apply now!
Accountability: Performs engine operation, on-ground duties, equipment and track maintenance and other assigned duties to assist in an efficient railroad operation. Expected to progress in skill and responsibilities of train operations over time.
Responsibilities:
  • Assists in all phases of the safe daily operation of trains.
  • Operates equipment according to company policies, procedures and practices in all areas, including equipment usage and maintenance, safety (FRA and OSHA), and DOT requirements.
  • Will operate track switches, couple cars and work on freight trains in yard operations.
  • Will move and align various parts of rail equipment to create or build trains.
  • Multi-tasking - must be able to perform several tasks safely that will require pulling, controlling and maneuvering onto and off of equipment.
  • Required to work on-call basis, and expected to be available to work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in all weather conditions.
  • Irregular work schedules determined by rotation.
  • Home daily position.
  • Telephone required in order to be contacted.
  • Increasing responsibilities expected and required, including the ability to handle locomotive engineering duties.
  • Train Crew Members are subject to random alcohol and drug testing as per the Federal Railroad Administration Guidelines.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience: FRA Conductor and/or Engineer certification preferred. Must be mechanically inclined, and have basic reading and math skills. Must have the ability to develop teamwork and work with all levels of personnel in achieving train-handling objectives.
Physical Requirements: Mobility to participate in frequent travel along the assigned short line and within the region encompassing the operations. Requires pulling, controlling, and maneuvering onto and off of equipment. Occasional lifting of at least 80lbs to perform essential job functions. Must be able to walk long distances over uneven surfaces. Requires 24/7 on-call duty.
Environmental Conditions: Performs duties in primarily outside environments, in and around moving locomotives, railcars, vehicles, and equipment. Frequent exposure to weather elements: appropriate PPE required.
Benefits: R. J. Corman Railroad Group, LLC is committed to providing its full-time employees and their families with quality benefits.
R. J. Corman offers the following:
Full-Time Team Members:
  • Railroad retirement benefits
  • Immediate Eligibility Starting Day One of Employment:
    • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
    • PTO (Paid Time Off) Accrual
    • 8 Paid Holidays Per Year
      • Veteran's Day is a Paid Holiday for US Veterans
    • Voluntary Supplemental Life Insurance
    • Voluntary Short and Long-Term Disability
    • Voluntary Accident Insurance
  • FSA and HSA Options
  • 401K Employer Match
  • Paid Maternity Leave
  • Group Life Insurance

All Team Members:
  • 401K Retirement Savings Plan
  • Referral Bonuses
  • Employee Discounts from Various Suppliers
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Annual Boot Voucher
  • Company Provided PPE
  • Prescription Safety Glasses Allowance

R. J. Corman Railroad is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer that is committed to a safe and drug-free workplace. R. J. Corman performs pre-employment criminal background checks and substance abuse testing, which includes a urine drug test to detect the presence of illegal drugs. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping R. J. Corman a safe and drug-free company.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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